Noelene's remote training experience

BCA National's Noelene Millikin recently delivered training in Galiwinku (Elcho Island), north-east of Darwin, this month as part of the Indigenous Remote Service Delivery Traineeship Program.

Here are her thoughts:

"The opportunity to teach in a remote location does not come everyday. However, if you are one of the fortunate ones who are offered to teach there, one should jump at the opportunity!

"The experience was surreal. The flight across ‘the top end’ was amazing; looking down at the coastline and seeing ancient rivers winding like giant snakes across the land - it has to be seen to be really appreciated.

"The one thing I take most from this experience and truly appreciate was the people. The people of Elcho Island welcome you with such honesty and trust that they truly made my time there a once in a lifetime experience. I was privileged to enjoy the company of some wonderful people.

"We laughed and I tried to learn to dance, to no avail, but maybe next time! We learned together, we taught each other.

"It’s ironic that it was I who came across a wealth of new found knowledge - and I was the teacher! Learning about the community and sharing in the daily events gave so much more meaning to the word ‘training.’ We found ways to share our knowledge and to teach each other.

"A journey began when I went to Elcho Island, and I am hoping it continues. I hope what I take with me, I keep with me."

The group will be having their next training block later this month in Uluru. Below are some pictures from the flight from Darwin to Galiwinku.